West Virginia scientists improve brain communication using zinc

Neuroscientists at West Virginia University have found a way to control zinc levels in the brain. Zinc is an important mineral that helps improve memory and can reduce symptoms of some neurological disorders. However, it’s crucial to deliver the right amount to specific areas. Charles Anderson, an assistant professor at the university, led the study. He compared zinc's role in the brain to a volume knob, suggesting that adjusting zinc levels could influence brain connections. This work may help develop new treatments for various diseases. The research focuses on a protein called ZIP12, which transports zinc in the brain. The team learned how ZIP12 affects synaptic activity, which is how nerve cells communicate. Understanding how zinc functions in health and disease can help scientists find ways to enhance or reduce its effects. Previous studies have linked zinc levels to conditions like autism, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease. Anderson noted that changes in zinc transporter proteins can be related to these neurological disorders. For instance, higher levels of zinc transporters have been found in the brains of people with schizophrenia. The researchers also tested compounds that could control the zinc transporter system. Philip Bender, a postdoctoral fellow, carried out experiments to observe how these compounds affected synaptic function. He believes their findings could lead to new therapies for several disorders. Anderson hopes this research will provide valuable insight into zinc's role in the brain. Future studies might explore how zinc influences sensory processing, which could be crucial for treating certain neurological conditions.